In a hard-fought battle during the third round of the NCAA tournament on Sunday, the No. 8 Memphis women’s soccer team faced a 3-0 defeat against No. 11 Pitt. The loss marks the conclusion of the Tigers’ exceptional season, which saw them with a 20-2 record and a 17-game winning streak.
The match, held in Fayetteville, Arkansas, served as a poignant bookend to Memphis’s 2022 season, concluding in the Sweet 16 on the same field where their previous season had ended 364 days earlier. Despite challenging weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and a soggy pitch, Pitt managed to break the scoreless tie in the 51st minute with a goal from Keera Melenhorst. Memphis goalkeeper Kaylie Bierman, who made six saves in the game, couldn’t stop Melenhorst’s over-the-shoulder ball, assisted by Sarah Schupansky’s corner kick.
Pitt extended their lead with another goal in the 75th minute, courtesy of Deborah Abiodun’s skillful play, followed by an insurance goal in the 87th minute by Aliya Gomes’ header into an empty net.
Memphis coach Brooks Monaghan, despite the disappointment of the loss, acknowledged the pain but urged his team to look at the broader picture. “Haven’t felt this in a long time. But trying not to focus on this one day, but the whole last three or four months,” he said.
Monaghan credited Pitt’s athleticism, noting that it played a significant role in the outcome. The Tigers, known for their defensive prowess, had allowed just 10 goals throughout the season. However, Pitt’s performance, recording 19 shots against Memphis, showcased their strength on the field.
This marks the second consecutive appearance in the Sweet 16 for the Tigers, a feat that Monaghan believes elevates the program to “the upper echelon.” Despite the loss, the remarkable season has left a lasting impact on the team, with Monaghan expressing pride in what they have achieved.
As Pitt advances to the Elite Eight for the first time in program history, the Tigers conclude a season that Monaghan described as “remarkable” and “elevating to a different level.”
